Ep 215: Ryan McDermott on Invading Iraq in 2003

What this episode covers

Ryan McDermott, Army veteran of the 2003 invasion of Iraq and author of Downriver: Memoir of a Warrior Poet, joins the show to talk about his combat experiences. ▪️ Times • 01:13 Introduction • 01:55 Seeking purpose • 04:11 West Point • 06:48 9/11 • 08:41 3rd Infantry Division • 10:12 Platoon tactics • 14:51 “Crossing tonight” • 18:08 Preparing for combat • 23:40 Tired • 29:37 Baghdad • 35:51 Thunder Runs Follow along on Instagram, X @schoolofwarpod, and YouTube @SchoolofWarPodcast Find a transcript of today’s episode on our School of War Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of School of War?

This episode is 38 minutes long.

When was this School of War episode published?

This episode was published on July 18, 2025.

What is this episode about?

Ryan McDermott, Army veteran of the 2003 invasion of Iraq and author of Downriver: Memoir of a Warrior Poet, joins the show to talk about his combat experiences. ▪️ Times • 01:13 Introduction • 01:55 Seeking...

Can I download this School of War episode?

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